How to Store Furniture in Non Climate Controlled Storage

TL;DR: Non-climate-controlled storage works well for durable furniture like metal patio sets, plastic and resin pieces, and treated wood, as long as you clean, prepare, and elevate items before storing. Wood furniture needs a light polish and a moisture-conscious wrap, while upholstered pieces need a full clean and dry before they go in. Choose climate-controlled storage for leather, antiques, delicate fabrics, and anything electronic. Raise everything off the floor, leave space for airflow, and use silica packs or baking soda to manage humidity.

Storing furniture can be nerve-wracking, especially when you're storing it in a non-climate-controlled storage unit. But don't worry! Storage Star's guide is here to help. We'll discuss best practices for storing furniture in non-climate-controlled environments and storage units.

Understanding Non-Climate Controlled Storage

Choosing the right storage type is one of the first decisions that affects how well your furniture holds up over time. Non-climate-controlled units are a cost-effective, widely available option, but they come with a few limitations worth knowing before you rent one.

What is Non-Climate Controlled Storage?

Non-climate-controlled storage solutions do not regulate temperature or humidity. Think of these units like a garage or shed. As the weather changes outside, so does the environment inside. Because of this, they’re typically cheaper than temperature-controlled units.

They still offer a secure, dry place to keep your belongings. What they won't do is shield your items from outdoor temperature swings, which matters more or less depending on your local climate.

Differences Between Climate-Controlled and Non-Climate-Controlled

As you can imagine, climate-controlled storage units regulate temperature inside the unit, while non-climate-controlled units don’t. A climate-controlled storage unit isn’t necessary for all stored items. It’s best to choose this type of unit when storing sensitive items like electronics, leather, or antiques. 

• Climate control helps protect sensitive items from heat, cold, and temperature swings, which prevents warping, cracking, and musty smells. 

• Climate control also protects against humidity and moisture damage.

• Price difference is another differentiator. More on that later.

As a recap:

• Temperature Control: A climate-controlled storage unit regulates temperature; a non-climate-controlled unit does not.
• Cost: Non-climate-controlled units are generally less expensive.
• Suitable Items: Climate control is ideal for sensitive items; non-climate control is best for durable goods.

Benefits of Using Non-Climate-Controlled Storage

Non-climate-controlled storage solutions offer several enticing benefits, making them a practical choice for many people.

• Drive-Up Accessibility: Non-climate-controlled units are typically outdoor drive-up units. Drive-up units mean you can drive up right to your unit, making loading and unloading much quicker and easier. It's great if you're moving heavy, bulky items, are a contractor, or are looking to store a vehicle, RV, or boat.
• Ground-Level Access: Drive-up units that aren't climate-controlled are typically on ground level. You won't have to worry about going up and down stairs, walking down long halls, or finding the elevator.
• Affordability: Many cheap storage units are non-climate-controlled - a fraction of the cost of a climate-controlled option. This makes them popular for budget-conscious tenants.
• Availability: Non-climate-controlled units are more readily available.

What Can I Store in a Non-Climate-Controlled Storage?

The right call comes down to how durable and weather-resistant an item is. Sturdy, resilient materials hold up fine. Anything porous, finished with delicate materials, or electronic needs a different environment.

Items Suitable for Non-Climate Control

Many items can be stored safely without climate control. Think sturdy, resilient, and durable items. Here's a quick list of items that are suitable for an outdoor drive-up storage unit:

• Metal furniture, including outdoor furniture
• Wooden furniture with a protective finish
• Plastic or resin-based items, such as coolers
• Gardening tools, lawnmowers, and weed wackers
• Non-delicate fabrics and materials, such as tents and tarps
• Outdoor and sporting equipment, as well as skis, snowboards, and bicycles
• Kitchen items, such as pots, pans, and utensils
• Vehicle storage, including cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, and small RVs. We recommend a climate-controlled drive-up unit for luxury vehicles or classic automobiles.

Items to Avoid Storing

Some items need to be stored in a climate-controlled environment. Identify items that are delicate or susceptible to temperature, moisture, and humidity damage. Here are a few items we recommend storing in climate-controlled storage.

• Paintings, photographs, and delicate fabrics
• Electronics and appliances that would be sensitive to moisture
• Leather or antique furniture
• Vinyl records
• Musical instruments, particularly those with strings or made of wood.

Protective storage involves knowing what items will quickly warp, crack, or degrade. When in doubt, prioritize storage that offers climate regulation. If you're looking to rent a storage unit and aren't sure what type of unit you need, contact the Storage Star team for an expert opinion.

How to Store Furniture in a Storage Unit

A little prep work before move-in day goes a long way toward keeping furniture in the condition you left it. Wood and upholstered furniture need slightly different treatment, so here's how to handle each.

Step 1: Measure First

Before you move anything, measure your larger pieces. This confirms they'll clear doorways, fit in your moving vehicle, and fit the unit size you've rented. Jot the dimensions down somewhere you'll find them again, especially if you're planning to move the furniture back out later.

Step 2: Create a Packing Plan

If you’re storing a mix of wooden furniture and upholstery, you’ll need to prep each surface differently before placing them in the unit. Figure out what you’re planning to store, get any materials you might need, and prep the item. 

Step 3: Design Your Storage Unit

The arrangement of furniture in your storage unit will also impact its preservation. 

• Start by placing heavier items on the bottom. This supports weight distribution and prevents pressure damage to delicate pieces.
• Maintain clear pathways and spacing for airflow. Adequate ventilation is crucial to avoid musty odors and moisture buildup. Ensuring no piece is crowded helps maintain overall conditions.
• Place large, sturdy items against walls.
• Keep lighter, fragile items towards the center of the unit.
• Leave drawers and doors ajar in storage to promote air circulation and reduce the chance of moisture accumulation within closed compartments.

How to Store Wood Furniture Without Climate Control

Yes, you can store wood furniture without climate control. It just needs a bit more preparation to hold up well.

• Clean each piece with a mild detergent or wood cleaner to remove dust and grime, then let it dry completely before storage. Leftover moisture is what invites mold.

• Finish any repairs and let them fully cure before the piece goes into the unit.

• Disassemble larger items where you can. Removing drawers or table legs makes pieces easier to move and frees up space in your unit. Bag hardware like screws and bolts and tape the bag to the piece it belongs to.

• Apply a quality wood polish or sealant. This adds a protective layer and helps repel moisture between now and when you retrieve it.

How to Preserve Different Kinds of Wood Furniture

Different wood species respond differently to temperature and humidity swings. Knowing what you're working with helps you take the right precautions.

Cedar

Cedar is a durable, rot-resistant softwood often used in outdoor furniture. It's naturally insect-repellent, but moisture management still matters to prevent shrinkage and expansion over time.

Mahogany

A reddish-brown hardwood with a linear grain, mahogany is softer than teak and more susceptible to bugs and moisture. Humidity control matters more here than with most hardwoods.

Maple

Maple is a strong, light-colored hardwood that resists staining and temperature swings well, though its density makes it prone to scratches and dents. Clean with a dry cloth and wrap it in soft, breathable padding.

Oak

Dense and weather-resistant, oak holds up well in most conditions but can dry out over time. A penetrating oil finish before storage helps keep it from drying and cracking.

Pine

Pine is lightweight and common in couches and beds, but it's susceptible to rot, shrinking, and swelling, which makes it one of the woods that benefits most from climate control if you have the option. Handle it carefully during the move, since it scratches easily.

Teak

Teak's natural oils make it more weather-resistant than most woods, and it typically outlasts mahogany with less upkeep. The one thing to watch for is extreme heat, which can dry it out.

How to Store Upholstered Furniture in a Non-Climate-Controlled Storage Unit

Upholstered pieces need a different kind of prep, focused on the fabric rather than the frame.

• Vacuum thoroughly to remove dust, crumbs, and anything that could attract pests over time.

• Spot-treat stains with a fabric-safe cleaner and let the piece dry completely. Storing upholstery while it's still damp is one of the fastest ways to end up with mold or a musty smell.

• Steam-clean if the fabric allows it, which helps with lingering odors as well as hidden dirt.

• Skip long-term storage for upholstered furniture in a non-climate-controlled unit when you can help it. Fabric holds onto humidity more than wood does, so it's more prone to mildew and fading over an extended period. If it has to go in a non-climate-controlled unit, keep the stay short.

Managing Humidity and Temperature Risks

Nobody likes a musty mattress or warped drawers. So if you plan to use your items after you store them (of course you do), you need to keep moisture in mind – especially when storing wood or upholstered furniture. To protect your furniture from moisture, consider:

• Using breathable cotton or linen covers, or even old bedsheets, will prevent dust accumulation and allow air circulation, reducing mold risks. 

• Avoid plastic wraps for wood, as they trap moisture. This can lead to warping or discoloration over time, too.

• Position furniture off the ground, elevating it with pallets or blocks. Elevation will also shield against flooding or damp ground exposure.

• Ensure good airflow around your wood pieces.

• Adding desiccants like silica packs or activated charcoal can help prevent moisture from accumulating inside drawers.

• Periodically check your stored furniture. This will allow you to catch potential issues early, preserving the integrity of your items.

• Remember, high humidity can lead to expansion and mold growth, while low humidity can dry and crack wood, so depending on where you live, you may need climate-controlled storage. 

Using Desiccants and Moisture Absorbers

Desiccants are substances that absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. This reduces humidity and condensation and helps protect items from mold, rust, and corrosion. These are a great option when protecting wood from dampness-related issues.

Different types of desiccants are available. Silica gel packs are common. Baking soda is another option, which also helps absorb odor.

• Place desiccants near wood surfaces and inside drawers or cabinets for the best coverage.

• Check and replace them regularly once they've absorbed as much as they can hold. 

Ventilation Tips

Proper ventilation is another critical factor in preventing damage. Good airflow discourages mold growth and prevents moisture buildup on surfaces.

Positioning furniture wisely can improve air circulation. Leave space between items and keep them off the ground. These techniques enhance airflow, reducing stagnant air pockets.

Strategically opening drawers and cabinets further aids air movement. This practice is especially beneficial in humid areas. It prevents moisture from accumulating in enclosed spaces.

To optimize ventilation, consider:

• Keeping a gap between furniture and walls
• Utilizing shelves for smaller items to maintain airflow
• Avoiding over-stacking, which limits circulation

How Much Do You Save With Non-Climate-Controlled Storage?

Climate control adds real cost to a monthly storage bill. Here's how current pricing compares across a few Storage Star locations, matched by the same unit size at the same facility:

Pricing reflects rates at these facilities as of August 2026 and is subject to change. Check your local Storage Star facility for up-to-date rates.

At most facilities, a drive-up unit costs more than a standard non-climate-controlled unit without drive-up access, since the added convenience carries its own premium. The pricing above still holds: even a drive-up, non-climate-controlled unit typically costs less per month than its climate-controlled counterpart at the same location

Protect Your Furniture with Storage Star Storage Units

Consider renting a storage unit with Storage Star to wrap up your furniture storage journey. Our non-climate-controlled units offer a secure, budget-friendly solution for your durable goods. They're perfect for furniture that can withstand various conditions with proper preparation. (We also have storage units with climate control!)

With drive-up access, ground-level convenience, and flexible sizing options, storing your items has never been easier. Whether you're downsizing, decluttering, or prepping for a move, Storage Star has the space and support to store smart and stress-free. Find storage near you now!